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Above Average Pittsburgh Pirates Blog

Willy Garcia Designated for Assignment

According to Sean McCool of Pirates Prospects, the Pirates have designated Willy Garcia for assignment as the corresponding move for Ivan Nova being added to the 40-man roster. Nova officially signed with the Pirates on Tuesday.

The Pirates signed Garcia out of the Dominican Republic in 2010. The 24-year-old outfielder has a tremendous throwing arm, which is considered the best in the system. He’s recorded 74 outfield assists since 2013.

Garcia struggled offensively this past season, as he posted a career worst .659 OPS along with a high strikeout rate of 26.3% in 499 plate appearances for AAA Indianapolis. If Garcia is able to clear waivers, he’ll begin the 2017 season with Indianapolis.